The editor was fortunate to be among the first to experience the latest expansion pack “Vessel of Hatred” and the new profession “Spiritborn” in “Diablo IV.” Now, I would like to share with you insights into the new professions, maps, and experiences of this major DLC.
Related short films:
related articles:
“Diablo IV” new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teaches you how to match the “strongest damage combination” with the soul master “Diablo IV” new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like “changing professions” at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one Diablo IV’s first expansion pack “Body of Hate” will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
“Soul Master” is a Four-in-One New Profession
The new profession “Soul Master” enables players to summon four different soul guardians: centipede, giant gorilla, cheetah, and flying eagle. Each Guardian boasts unique characteristics and its own skill tree. Players can choose two Guardians, granting access to their passive bonuses. My experience with four preset soul masters, up to level 30, revealed a promising initial impression. Below is a quick review of each Guardian build:
Centipede Trial Experience
The centipede focuses on dealing continuous damage (DOT), capable of both inflicting damage and self-healing. A personal favorite, the continuous damage gameplay feels smooth, with gorgeous skill effects and a sense of power. However, the pervasive poisonous green coloring on the screen and the “special” sound effects may not appeal to all players.
Giant Gorilla Trial Feeling
This Guardian leans towards defense, boasting high tankiness and counterattack capabilities. Ideal for players who enjoy the meat shield playstyle, the giant gorilla offers exceptional defense and counterattack potential, reminiscent of a barbarian tank. The earthquake effect during movement stands out as the most impactful among the four.
Cheetah Trial Feeling
The cheetah excels at quick multiple strikes and high mobility, resembling the gameplay of a Stalker. Although it necessitates consistent monster clearing to stack ultimate moves, the cheetah’s high mobility and fast attack speed create a satisfying rhythm. However, its low defense makes it vulnerable and not recommended for solo players.
Flying Eagle Trial Feeling
The flying eagle specializes in mid-range attacks, employing feather attack skills that fly back and forth. However, compared to the other three Guardians, it feels somewhat lacking. Reminiscent of a mage’s teleport, most of its skills prioritize single-target damage. The flying eagle is better suited for fighting smaller Kings and bosses, relying on the range of its ultimate move to clear out mobs.
Skill Mixing is Key
Each soul guardian boasts unique skills and equipment, allowing for highly customizable gameplay. Players can mix and match skills from different guardians to create unique builds. I experimented with combining the Centipede’s sustained damage skills with the Giant Ape’s high defense, resulting in a character that deals considerable damage while remaining incredibly durable. This combination allows for survival once morest large enemy groups, gradually weakening them.
I also tested the “powerful attack” build, blending the cheetah with the centipede for swift monster clearing. However, this combination requires a more cautious approach due to its fragility. Careful attention to health management is crucial, as I frequently found myself relying on red water with this build. Alternatively, players can choose the same soul for both primary and secondary spirits to significantly enhance their inherent characteristics.
Ultimate Skills and New Mechanics
Each soul guardian possesses its own unique ultimate skill. Whether it’s the Giant Ape’s continuous damage and barrier or the Cheetah’s high-speed attack and cooldown reset, these ultimates add depth to the gameplay experience. The Soul Master also introduces several new mechanics:
Resolve: This mechanic enhances defense. Each time you receive damage, you lose one layer, but as long as there are layers left, you benefit from a 20% damage reduction.
Unhindered: Grants immunity to enemy slow effects, allowing you to pass through them unhindered.
Ferocity: This effect increases attack speed and is stackable.
These settings encourage players to be proactive to maximize benefits. Passive play in the corner of groups will significantly compromise your survivability and damage output. This high-risk, high-reward gameplay caters to players who enjoy a fast-paced approach.
The New Map Offers Stunning Visuals
In addition to the Soul Master, I explored several new areas and strongholds. The visual effects are outstanding, particularly a stronghold filled with lanterns, showcasing a dramatic contrast of light and shadow. Players must carry a lantern to illuminate dark areas and utilize the lighting mechanism to combat enemies. This mechanic enhances the strategic depth and overall interest of the game. The atmosphere evokes a strong sense of Diablo 2 nostalgia, particularly with its familiar soundtracks.
related articles:
“Diablo IV” new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teaches you how to match the “strongest damage combination” with the soul master “Diablo IV” new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like “changing professions” at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one Diablo IV’s first expansion pack “Body of Hate” will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
Summary: A Worthy Investment
The new Soul Master profession introduces a game mechanic that thrives on diversity and flexibility. Players can freely combine different soul guardian skills to create unique, powerful builds. It feels like merging four new classes into one, with each Guardian boasting its own distinct style and playstyle.
Although I only experienced the early content this time, the new expansion already feels promising and exciting. If you’re interested in the Soul Master profession, consider waiting for more information before making a decision.
Postscript: A Thriving Headquarters Atmosphere
Beyond the demo, I was fortunate to visit Blizzard’s headquarters. The large statues in the museum are highly impressive, and a dedicated museum documents the game development process. Currently on display is content from “Warcraft Rumble,” with information on “Diablo 4” having been previously exhibited.
related articles:
“Diablo IV” new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teaches you how to match the “strongest damage combination” with the soul master “Diablo IV” new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like “changing professions” at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one Diablo IV’s first expansion pack “Body of Hate” will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
.
The editor is fortunate to be the first to experience the latest expansion pack "Vessel of Hatred" and the new profession "Spiritborn" in "Diablo IV". Now I would like to share with you the new professions, maps and experiences of this major DLC.
Related short films:
related articles:
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teach you how to match the "strongest damage combination" with the soul master
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like "changing professions" at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one
Diablo IV’s first expansion pack "Body of Hate" will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
"Soul Master" is like a four-in-one new profession
The new profession "Soul Master" can summon four kinds of soul guardians: centipede, giant gorilla, cheetah and flying eagle. Each Guardian has its own characteristics and skill tree, and players can choose two to gain access to their passive bonuses. I tried four preset soul masters, and the level was limited to level 30. Although I haven’t been able to experience the later content, I have a good initial impression. Here’s a quick review of each Guardian build:
Centipede trial experience
It focuses on continuous damage (DOT), which can cause damage and heal itself at the same time. One of my favorites, the continuous damage gameplay is smooth, the skill effects are gorgeous, and it feels very powerful. However, not everyone likes the poisonous green color throughout the screen and the "special" sound effects.
Giant gorilla trial feeling
It is biased toward defense, has high tankiness and counterattack capabilities, and is suitable for players who like to play the meat shield game. It has extremely high defense and counterattack capabilities, and plays like a barbarian tank. Feeling the earthquake when making a move is the strongest among the four.
Cheetah trial feeling
Focus on fast multiple strikes and high mobility, similar to the gameplay of Stalker. It has high mobility and fast attack speed. Because it needs to stack ultimate moves, it has to keep clearing monsters. It has a strong rhythm and is fun to play. However, the disadvantage is that the defense is too low and it is easy to die. It is not recommended for solo players.
Flying Eagle Trial Feeling
It is good at mid-range attacks and has feather attack skills that fly back and forth.But compared to the other three guardians, it feels a little inferior. It reminds me of the mage teleport. Most of its skills are aimed at single-target damage. It is more suitable for fighting small kings and bosses. Instead, it relies on the range of the ultimate move to clear out the mobs.
Skill mix is the essence
Each soul guardian has unique skills and equipment, and the gameplay is changeable. Players can mix the skills of different guardians to create unique structures. The author tried to mix the skills of different soul guardians. Combining the Centipede’s sustained damage skills with the Giant Ape’s high defense skills creates a character that can deal a lot of damage but is also very durable. This combination allows you to stay alive in the face of large numbers of enemies and gradually weaken them.
I also tried the "powerful attack" type by mixing cheetahs with centipedes. It clears monsters very quickly, but you have to be extra careful. Because of the "thin skin", you need to pay attention to the blood volume. I often drink red water when using this combination. If you don’t mix them, you can choose the same soul as the primary and secondary spirits to greatly enhance your own characteristics.
Ultimate skills and new mechanics
Each soul guardian has its own unique ultimate skill (Ultimate). Whether it is the giant ape’s continuous damage and barrier, or the cheetah’s high-speed attack and reset cooldown, the game process is enriched. Soul Master also introduces several new mechanics:
Resolve: The effect of enhancing defense. Each time you receive damage, you will lose one layer, but as long as there are still layers, it can provide 20% damage reduction.
Unhindered: Can pass through enemies without being slowed down.
Ferocity: The effect of increasing attack speed, which can be superimposed.
Basically, this setting forces players to take the initiative to get the most benefits. If you stay in a corner of the group, your life-saving power and output will be greatly compromised. This is a high-risk, high-reward gameplay, which is more suitable for players with a fast pace.
The new map has great visual effects
In addition to the soul master, the editor also experienced some new areas and strongholds. The visual effects are excellent, especially a stronghold filled with lanterns and a strong contrast of light and shadow. Players need to carry a lantern to illuminate dark areas and use the lighting mechanism to deal with enemies during combat, which greatly increases the strategy and interest of the game. This atmosphere already reminds you of Diablo 2, and at the same time you can really hear some D2 nostalgic BGM, which makes old players feel more familiar.
related articles:
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teach you how to match the "strongest damage combination" with the soul master
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like "changing professions" at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one
Diablo IV’s first expansion pack "Body of Hate" will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
Summary: Worth investing once more
Overall, the new profession of soul master brings a new game mechanism with extremely high diversity and flexibility. Players can freely combine different soul guardian skills according to their own preferences to create unique and powerful structures. It feels like four new classes rolled into one, with each Guardian having their own unique style and playstyle.
Although I have only experienced the early content this time, I am already looking forward to it. If you are interested in this new career, you may wish to wait until more information is released before making a decision.
Postscript: The visit to the headquarters is full of games
In addition to the demo, the editor also visited Blizzard’s headquarters. The large statues in the museum are impressive, and there is also a dedicated museum showing the game development process. What is currently on display is the content of "Warcraft Rumble", and related information on "Diablo 4" was previously displayed.
related articles:
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teach you how to match the "strongest damage combination" with the soul master
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like "changing professions" at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one
Diablo IV’s first expansion pack "Body of Hate" will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
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The editor is fortunate to be the first to experience the latest expansion pack "Vessel of Hatred" and the new profession "Spiritborn" in "Diablo IV". Now I would like to share with you the new professions, maps and experiences of this major DLC.
Related short films:
related articles:
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teach you how to match the "strongest damage combination" with the soul master "Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like "changing professions" at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one Diablo IV’s first expansion pack "Body of Hate" will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
"Soul Master" is like a four-in-one new profession
The new profession "Soul Master" can summon four kinds of soul guardians: centipede, giant gorilla, cheetah and flying eagle. Each Guardian has its own characteristics and skill tree, and players can choose two to gain access to their passive bonuses. I tried four preset soul masters, and the level was limited to level 30. Although I haven’t been able to experience the later content, I have a good initial impression. Here’s a quick review of each Guardian build:
Centipede trial experience
It focuses on continuous damage (DOT), which can cause damage and heal itself at the same time. One of my favorites, the continuous damage gameplay is smooth, the skill effects are gorgeous, and it feels very powerful. However, not everyone likes the poisonous green color throughout the screen and the "special" sound effects.
Giant gorilla trial feeling
It is biased toward defense, has high tankiness and counterattack capabilities, and is suitable for players who like to play the meat shield game. It has extremely high defense and counterattack capabilities, and plays like a barbarian tank. Feeling the earthquake when making a move is the strongest among the four.
Cheetah trial feeling
Focus on fast multiple strikes and high mobility, similar to the gameplay of Stalker. It has high mobility and fast attack speed. Because it needs to stack ultimate moves, it has to keep clearing monsters. It has a strong rhythm and is fun to play. However, the disadvantage is that the defense is too low and it is easy to die. It is not recommended for solo players.
Flying Eagle Trial Feeling
It is good at mid-range attacks and has feather attack skills that fly back and forth.But compared to the other three guardians, it feels a little inferior. It reminds me of the mage teleport. Most of its skills are aimed at single-target damage. It is more suitable for fighting small kings and bosses. Instead, it relies on the range of the ultimate move to clear out the mobs.
Skill mix is the essence
Each soul guardian has unique skills and equipment, and the gameplay is changeable. Players can mix the skills of different guardians to create unique structures. The author tried to mix the skills of different soul guardians. Combining the Centipede’s sustained damage skills with the Giant Ape’s high defense skills creates a character that can deal a lot of damage but is also very durable. This combination allows you to stay alive in the face of large numbers of enemies and gradually weaken them.
I also tried the "powerful attack" type by mixing cheetahs with centipedes. It clears monsters very quickly, but you have to be extra careful. Because of the "thin skin", you need to pay attention to the blood volume. I often drink red water when using this combination. If you don’t mix them, you can choose the same soul as the primary and secondary spirits to greatly enhance your own characteristics.
Ultimate skills and new mechanics
Each soul guardian has its own unique ultimate skill (Ultimate). Whether it is the giant ape’s continuous damage and barrier, or the cheetah’s high-speed attack and reset cooldown, the game process is enriched. Soul Master also introduces several new mechanics:
Resolve: The effect of enhancing defense. Each time you receive damage, you will lose one layer, but as long as there are still layers, it can provide 20% damage reduction.
Unhindered: Can pass through enemies without being slowed down.
Ferocity: The effect of increasing attack speed, which can be superimposed.
Basically, this setting forces players to take the initiative to get the most benefits. If you stay in a corner of the group, your life-saving power and output will be greatly compromised. This is a high-risk, high-reward gameplay, which is more suitable for players with a fast pace.
The new map has great visual effects
In addition to the soul master, the editor also experienced some new areas and strongholds. The visual effects are excellent, especially a stronghold filled with lanterns and a strong contrast of light and shadow. Players need to carry a lantern to illuminate dark areas and use the lighting mechanism to deal with enemies during combat, which greatly increases the strategy and interest of the game. This atmosphere already reminds you of Diablo 2, and at the same time you can really hear some D2 nostalgic BGM, which makes old players feel more familiar.
related articles:
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teach you how to match the "strongest damage combination" with the soul master "Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like "changing professions" at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one Diablo IV’s first expansion pack "Body of Hate" will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
Summary: Worth investing once more
Overall, the new profession of soul master brings a new game mechanism with extremely high diversity and flexibility. Players can freely combine different soul guardian skills according to their own preferences to create unique and powerful structures. It feels like four new classes rolled into one, with each Guardian having their own unique style and playstyle.
Although I have only experienced the early content this time, I am already looking forward to it. If you are interested in this new career, you may wish to wait until more information is released before making a decision.
Postscript: The visit to the headquarters is full of games
In addition to the demo, the editor also visited Blizzard’s headquarters. The large statues in the museum are impressive, and there is also a dedicated museum showing the game development process. What is currently on display is the content of "Warcraft Rumble", and related information on "Diablo 4" was previously displayed.
related articles:
"Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred exclusive interview with the game director: teach you how to match the "strongest damage combination" with the soul master "Diablo IV" new expansion pack Vessel of Hatred new profession: Soul Master is like "changing professions" at any time, tank, magician, monk, and rogue all in one Diablo IV’s first expansion pack "Body of Hate" will be launched in October and will add new professions, maps, etc.
